: built, supplied, or installed complete and ready to operate
a turnkey nuclear plant
a turnkey computer system
also : of or relating to a turnkey building or installation
a turnkey contract
turnkey vendors

turnkey

2 of 2

noun

plural turnkeys
: one who has charge of a prison's keys

Examples of turnkey in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Adjective
Varas expects interest from automotive enthusiasts as well as luxury real estate investors drawn to the turnkey nature of the homes and the opportunity to own one of six such residences in the country. Abby Montanez, Robb Report, 12 Aug. 2026 Taking a step forward by looking into the past, Elbit Systems proposes a turnkey package to convert standard commercial vessels into drone hubs capable of managing nine to 12 Hermes 650 Spark platforms. David Szondy july 21, New Atlas, 22 July 2026
Noun
Universal has turnkey movie studio and theatrical film business. Rick Ellis, Forbes.com, 10 Aug. 2026 That sale highlighted continued interest in turnkey homes on acreage within commuting distance of New York City. Abby Montanez, Robb Report, 28 July 2026 See All Example Sentences for turnkey

Word History

First Known Use

Adjective

1860, in the meaning defined above

Noun

1622, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of turnkey was in 1622

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Cite this Entry

“Turnkey.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/turnkey. Accessed 19 Aug. 2026.

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